Women's Football Hub Podcast Episode Title: Understanding Menopause in Female Athletes with Dr. Nicky Keay Episode Summary: In this episode of Women's Football Hub, host Carolyn Kent speaks with Dr. Nicky Keay, a leading expert in female athlete health, honorary clinical lecturer at University College London, and author of Hormones, Health and Human Potential and The Myths of Menopause. They discuss the impact of menopause on female footballers, the physiological and psychological challenges it presents, and strategies for coaches, clubs, and players to manage training and recovery effectively. Key Topics Discussed: 🔹 What is Menopause? – Understanding the physiological changes when the ovaries retire and hormone production stops. 🔹 Physical & Mental Effects – Common symptoms such as hot flushes, sleep disturbances, mood fluctuations, and anxiety. 🔹 Training Adaptations – How players and coaches can modify training and recovery to accommodate hormonal changes. 🔹 Coach Education – Encouraging male coaches to become comfortable discussing menopause and supporting players effectively. 🔹 Exercise & Menopause – Why strength training is crucial, but not the only form of exercise needed for menopausal athletes. 🔹 Fitting Exercise into a Busy Life – Practical tips for women juggling work, family, and training. 🔹 Psychological Wellbeing – How cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and journaling can help manage symptoms. 🔹 HRT: Myths & Facts – Common misconceptions about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and how it can help manage symptoms. 🔹 Red-S & Menopause – The crossover between low energy availability (LEA), underfueling, and perimenopause in active women. Resources & Further Reading: 📚 Hormones, Health and Human Potential – Dr. Nicky Keay 📚 The Myths of Menopause – Dr. Nicky Keay 🌍 Visit Dr. Keay’s Website for research, resources, and advisory consultations www.nickykeayfitness.com Final Message: If you or someone you know is struggling with menopause and its impact on sports and daily life, reach out for support. Follow the latest evidence-based guidance and adapt training and recovery to fit individual needs. 🎧 Subscribe & Tune In Next Time Follow Women's Football Hub for more expert insights into women's football, health, and performance.

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